- Region: Madrid
- Declared a protected area: 1974
- Park surface area: 250 hectares
- Towns and villages: Montejo de la Sierra
The Hayedo Montejo beech forest is located on the slopes of the Sierra de Ayllón and is protected as a Natural Site of National Interest. It is a site of Community Importance (SCI) of Alto Lozoya and is also included within the limits of the the Sierra del Rincón Biosphere Reserve.
The forest represents the remains of the Central European deciduous vegetation in Spain and is one of the most studied in the Iberian Peninsula. Extensive research programmes have been under way in the beech forest in recent decades to monitor the evolution of the trees of which there are more than 120,000 and around 40,000 are beech.
Short promo video for the Hayedo Montejo beech forest and Sierra del Rincon biosphere reserve.
The Hayedo Montejo beech forest is included within the limits of the the Sierra del Rincón Biosphere Reserve. This short video (in Spanish) shows some of the sceneries, lifestyle and places to visit.
Among the huge beech trees, with some over 20 meters high, you can also find oak, wild cherry, hazelnut, birch, holly, heather and rowan. Some of the iconic beech specimens have even been named such as la Primera (the first), el Trono (the throne), la Ancla the (the anchor) but perhaps the most admired is la Roca (the rock) which is aged at more than 250 years.
The forest is a haven for many insects, birds and other animals and nearly 100 species of butterfly have been recorded in the area.
Access to the Hayedo de Montejo beech forest is strictly restricted and authorization is required. (See information centres below)
Find a hotel close to the Hayedo de Montejo beech forest
Charming Getaway Near Madrid: Posada de Serrada
Just an hour’s drive from Madrid, Posada de Serrada in Serrada de la Fuente is the perfect spot for a peaceful overnight stay or a relaxing weekend escape. I truly enjoyed my time here—the combination of comfort, warm hospitality, and mountain views made it a memorable visit.
Alternatively, there is quite a good selection of inns and apartments available in the Montejo area. Have a look on booking.com.
The family rooms are spacious and well-equipped, featuring private bathrooms, free WiFi, and thoughtful touches like a work desk and toiletries. The on-site restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean and Spanish dishes, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Information Centres
Centro de información de la reserva de la biosphera Sierra del Rincon
This is the main information centre for the area known as the Sierra del Rincon biosphere reserve and they also coordinate the entrance permits for the Hayedo beech forest.
A visit to the beech forest is free and is guided. Dogs are not allowed (unless they are registered for the blind or partially sighted).
There is a permanent exhibition covering an introduction to the Sierra del Rincón (its nature, landscapes, culture, customs and gastronomy). There are two large rooms with information, exhibition panels, videos and a scale model of the area
- Address:C/Real, 64. Montejo de la Sierra
- Hours: Open every day 9.30 a 15.00
- Tel: 91 869 70 58
- Email: info.reservabiosfera@sierradelrincon.org
Reserving a visit to the Hayedo de Montejo beech forest
The best way to do this is ask your hotel or other accommodation as many have direct access to the reservation system. Alternatively you can reserve online at the official website or at the aforementioned information centre.
Reservations here: https://www.sierradelrincon.org/reservas.html
The forest is closed to the general public on Mondays
Essential FAQs for Visiting the Hayedo de Montejo Beech Forest from Madrid
Visiting the Hayedo de Montejo requires prior authorisation, as access is strictly regulated to protect the ecosystem. You can reserve your guided visit online via the Sierra del Rincón official website or through your hotel. Visits are free and always accompanied by a guide. More details about the process and tips for booking can be found in the full article.
This 250-hectare forest in the Sierra de Ayllón is one of the last remnants of Central European beech woodland in Spain. Declared a protected area in 1974, it hosts over 120,000 trees—around 40,000 of which are beech. Some are more than 250 years old. The forest’s biodiversity, research importance, and tranquil scenery make it a unique destination within the Sierra del Rincón Biosphere Reserve.
Autumn is widely regarded as the best time to visit, when the forest glows with vibrant red and gold hues. However, spring also offers beautiful scenery with blossoming flora and mild temperatures. Each season reveals a different side of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so it depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking.
No, pets are not allowed inside the beech forest, except guide dogs registered for the blind or partially sighted. This rule helps preserve the delicate balance of the forest’s wildlife. If you’re travelling with pets, nearby villages like Montejo de la Sierra or Serrada de la Fuente offer pleasant walking routes outside the protected area.
There’s a good range of accommodation nearby, from rural inns to cosy guesthouses. One popular choice is Posada de Serrada in Serrada de la Fuente—just an hour’s drive from Madrid. It’s known for its mountain views, local cuisine, and peaceful atmosphere. You’ll also find several apartments and small hotels listed in the Montejo area on booking platforms.
The forest teems with life. Visitors may spot woodpeckers, roe deer, and nearly 100 species of butterflies. Among the trees—beech, oak, birch, and holly—many birds and insects thrive. The area’s mix of Mediterranean and Central European vegetation creates a rare habitat that’s ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!